The Top Crates for Penning Your Dog
Just like a strong leash or a unique collar, a good dog crate is an absolute necessity for any dog owner. Used properly, they can provide your pup with a safe space in a variety of situations, whether during car or air travel or when you want to keep them away from your precious home goods while they’re being trained. But unlike leashes and collars, finding the right kennel can be a bit more difficult, since you’ll need one that’s not only the appropriate size for your dog, but that also matches its intended use. Realizing that, we researched dozens of options across a wide range of sizes and styles and narrowed the list down to these top picks, so you can spend less time shopping and more time with your furry best friend.
MidWest Homes iCrate Single Door & Double Door
The versatile choice
Versatility is an important characteristic for a dog kennel, and few offer more of it than the MidWest Homes for Pets Dog Crate. Not only is it constructed of high-quality materials, but it comes in a variety of different sizes and styles, from 18-inch single-door models perfect for small dogs and puppies to 48-inch double-door ones ideal for large adult K9s. Each model in and of itself offers a number of ergonomic features that make it easy to use and will extend the life of the product, including a tool-less foldable design and an included divider that you can use to customize the amount of space inside.
Pros:
- Also includes easy-to-attach plastic panels
- Rounded corners prevent injuries
- Removable pan-stop for easy cleanup
Cons:
- Sliding latch could be more secure
- Not great for very restless dogs
New World Folding Metal Dog Crate
The most spacious choice
While many dog crates can leave your pet feeling cramped and claustrophobic, the New World Folding Metal Dog Crate offers enough space for them to truly feel at home. The 42-inch model, which comes in both single and double-door versions, easily accommodates even the biggest of big pups thanks to its simple, open design. Just throw your dog’s favorite bedding into the bottom, and rest assured knowing that they’re going to be plenty comfortable the next time you need to leave the house. Oh, and did we mention it folds down for easy storage?
Pros:
- Two locks keep cage secure
- Suitable for dogs between 71-90 pounds
- Also comes in X-large version
Cons:
- Wire is a little thin
- Coating isn’t very durable
Petmate Two Door Top Load Dog Kennel
Travel with your small pup
Traveling with your small dog or puppy can be a pain, but the Petmate Two Door Top Load Dog Kennel makes it a bit easier. It’s the perfect portable option for carrying your dog during plane or car rides, thanks to its lightweight construction, built-in top handle, and aircraft-approved design. Of course, it’s also roomy enough to serve as a home kennel for your small pup, who’ll love the cozy, den-like interior and well-ventilated sidewalls.
Pros:
- Comes in a few different colors
- Ergonomic grip on handle
- Also great for cats
Cons:
- Animal must be under 15 pounds
- Does not fold up
AmazonBasics Single Door & Double Door Folding Metal Dog Crate
Affordable yet functional
It’s not the most durable or feature-rich option, but the AmazonBasics Single Door & Double Door Folding Metal Dog Crate is functional enough for those occasional times when you need to confine your dog during training or when going out. It sets up in seconds and requires no tools to put together, includes a divider panel and a secure swing door, and folds down just as fast for easy storage. For most households and dog breeds, that’s about all you need.
Pros:
- Very reasonably priced
- Also comes in other sizes
Cons:
- Not for very strong dogs
ProSelect Empire Dog Cage
A bullet-proof kennel
If you’re looking for the ultimate in protection for your beloved K9, or if you’ve tried more conventional wire cages and they’ve proved no match for your restless, chew-crazy pup, the ProSelect Empire Dog Cage is the only real option out there. The specialized model is by far one of the most rugged and durable kennels on the market, featuring 0.5-inch diameter reinforced steel tubes, two heavy-duty latches on the door, and a nearly indestructible hammertone finish. It also sits on removable casters, so you can easily move it from one place to another without heavy lifting.
Pros:
- Steel tray catches waste
- Strong welded stress points
- 20-gauge steel construction
Cons:
- Extremely heavy
- Very expensive
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need a dog crate?
Dog crate are handy in a number of situations. For puppies and young pets that are still being trained, a dog cage represents a safe way to kennel your pup while you’re out of the house, so they can’t destroy your valuable home goods or wet the floor (most kennels include removable trays to catch any waste your dog produces while inside). For older or already trained dogs, crates can simply provide them with a comfortable, den-like space to relax.
What features should I look for in a dog crate?
There are a number of features that make dog crates easier to use. As previously mentioned, many will come with removable bottom trays, which make cleaning any poop or pee produced by your pup a quick and painless task. You also want to make sure that there are secure locks on the door of the kennel, which is especially important if your dog as a restless personality or is still being trained. Lastly, many crates have folding designs, which makes them easy to store when not in use.
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